Work

Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Leptospirosis in Four Owned Dogs from Sri Lanka

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Leptospirosis is a zoonotic disease of global importance. This clinical communication reports the clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of leptospirosis in four owned dogs presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Peradeniya, within a period of four months. Clinical signs included anorexia, lethargy, and depression, with abdominal and lumbar pain on palpation. Only one dog had been properly vaccinated and dewormed. Common haematological and laboratory findings included anaemia, thrombocytopenia and elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Diagnosis was confirmed using the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) in two dogs and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) targeting the flaB gene in the other two. Initial therapy consisted of fluid administration and antibiotics. Despite treatments, three dogs died within two to seven days, while one dog survived.

Source: Sri Lanka Veterinary Journal

DOI: 10.4038/slvj.v17i2.93

Authors: K. A. R. K. Perera, C. Abeykoon, T. P. J. Athapattu, B. R. Fernando, C. D. Gamage, K. A. N. Wijayawardhane

Institution: University of Peradeniya

Language: English

Topic: Leptospirosis research and findings

Subfield: Parasitology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

Funder: University of Peradeniya